The William F. Cody Archive: Documenting the life and times of Buffalo Bill

Buffalo Bill in Rome.

The Globe comments upon the singular associate of Buffalo Bill's name with that of the Pope, and says:—That the two should ever have been brought into juxtaposition is an effective testimony to the change that has come over the face of "civilised" society. The Sovereign Pontiff has given audience to the whole troupe—Indians, Mexicans, Cowboys, and all; and we are told that the Indians are especially delighted with their reception. No doubt there was on both sides a good deal of pardonable curiosity. "The Pope" is a phrase to conjure with in all parts of the globe, suggesting the most notable personality of all those that fill the imaginations of men. There are may ruling potentates, but only one who dominates so largely the spiritual world. On the other hand, the Pope may well have felt interest in men coming from so far and on such an errand. The amusements of mankind must always be an object of study on the part of those who desire to direct its conduct and energies. What manner of persons are those who invade the Eternal City with all the paraphernalia of a traveling circus? The Pope now knows; and, at the same time, Buffalo Bill and his entourage may plume themselves upon having received their highest distinction. Royalty has long smiled upon them; they have now been recognised by the Church.